Any particular breed?

Any particular breed?

You might have a very fixed idea about the type of dog you want. But if you are at all uncertain which breed will best suit you, it’s well worth doing your homework, not the least because there are over 400 breeds to choose from.

The Internet: This is an excellent place to start your search; there are dozens of websites dedicated to specific breeds of dogs. There are even sites that will offer quizzes to help you to select the perfect breed for you. Also, talk to people who already own the breed you have in mind. And your vet will be able to give you advice, with some even offering free purchase consultations. Your vet will also be able to tell you if your intended breed has a tendency to inherit certain conditions, and advise you whether the breeder should carry out any health screening tests. The more you can learn about the breed you want, the more you’ll be certain that you’ll be able to provide for him,

Ask the right questions: Your vet will advise you on the right questions to ask a breeder about the following screening tests and whether they’re appropriate for your breed of dog:

Large breed dogs should have their hips checked for dysplasia; this is called hip scoring, and the lower the score, the better the hips

Some breeds, for example Collies, Labradors and Irish Setters, should have specific eye tests

Some breeds should have blood tests for specific conditions, for example von Willebrand’s Disease in Dobermanns.

To help you decide: If you have young children, choose a sociable and even tempered breed, and if you live the outdoor lifestyle, you should go for a breed that will thrive on this and be part of your active life. On the other hand, if you prefer the quiet life, or have a small garden, consider a smaller breed that would be happier relaxing with you indoors. It’s also important to bear in mind how big your dog will be when he reaches adulthood; you’ve got room for the puppy right now, but what about later on? And some dogs require more looking after than others. A long-haired breed is going to need daily grooming and brushing; and a boisterous type like a Dalmatian is going to need lots of exercise.